Barcelona forward Lionel Messi took to social media to post a heart-warming, yet an absolute acerbity message following Luis Suarez's departure from the club. The Uruguayan, on Thursday, completed his €6 million (£5.5m) move to Atletico Madrid, signing a two-year deal after both the teams came to terms on a deal, and the move left not only Messi but former Barca players like Dani Alves, Samuel Eto'o and even Cesc Fabregas in a state of disarray.
Taking to Instagram, the Barcelona captain wrote an emotional message for his former teammate, while also taking a jibe at the board, saying that although he deserved a better sending off, nothing that the board does now surprises him anymore.
"It is going to be so strange seeing you in another shirt, and even stranger to have to play against you," Messi wrote.
"You deserved a sending-off fit for what you are: one of the most important players in club history, both for what you did for the group and individually - not the one they gave you.
"But it is true that at this point nothing surprises me."
Joining the fray was former attacker, Neymar, who said, "Incredible how they do things.” Former midfielder Cesc Fabregas also expressed his discontent and even Samuel Eto'o threw a few words. "Son, you can't BUY class. Look after yourself and think about you." Dani Alves, who played for Barcelona between 2008 to 2016, said, “Unfortunately, that is reality from a long time. It is only confirmed year after year! It’s not about winning or losing, we know a lot about that, it’s about respect and they don’t know that [about that]! Keep it up, somehow we’re there.”
Luis, you'll be a Barça legend forever. We're greatful for the joy and happiness you gave the club during these 6 years. I look forward to playing against you as it'll be a new challenge. I wish you and your family only the best for the future. Un abrazo fuerte! @LuisSuarez9 pic.twitter.com/jezRkKvTVf
— Marc ter Stegen (@mterstegen1) September 25, 2020
Reacting to the messages, Suarez said that he will always be thankful to Messi.
“Thank you, friend, for your words, but thank you for being the way you are, for what you were from the first day with me and my family,” he wrote.
“I will always be grateful to Messi the human - funny and sentimental - because everyone knows the player.
🔴⚪ #SuárezRojiblanco
— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) September 25, 2020
👏 ¡Recibimos a @LuisSuarez9 sobre el césped!
🏧 #AúpaAtleti pic.twitter.com/cTU7hr3sY2
“Do not forget what I told you: ‘Continue enjoying yourself and demonstrating that you’re number one’, and don’t let two, three or four tarnish the giant that you are for the club and for the world of football.
“I love you very much, my friend, and we are going to miss you five.”
Feature image courtesy: AFP / Jewel Samad
